Seen or Unseen

Writings on the Wall

This is the start of Book 2; I figure I just continue to write it here. Enjoy :) 

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The Vibe: 

"Who can tell me what the significance of the 'braid' or the 'cornrow' is in the context of the enslaved?" I ask my class. One student raises their hand, "Yes Laura" 

"Braids helped enslaved Africans put up small acts of rebellion and resistance by not only allowing them to keep their heritage close but also providing a discreet way to transfer information. Cornrows soon became used as a way for slaves to secretly communicate with one another.  Slaves would style their braids, in different patterns as a means of communicating in code-written messages or used as maps for the underground railroad. They were also used as a way to hide extra food/seed, gold pieces, and even weapons" She finishes 

"Very good Laura. Looks like you did the reading" I pause and address the class, "By a show of hands who's uncomfortable with this section of the class." I look around and see the hesitation on my student's faces, "It's okay be honest, this is a safe space" Almost all of the class raise their hands, "I thought so" I take a deep breath in, "History isn't always going to be good. History will make us uncomfortable and angry. I assign these readings to invoke critical thinking and to pull at your feelings on purpose; this unit will be uncomfortable and sad.  Why do you think I spend a whole semester on slavery and the mistreatment of POC in modern society?" I ask.  No one says anything. I continue, "Because as mutants we of all people know what it's like to be mistreated because of our differences" I let them sit with that for a moment, the class was quiet but I can see that I have struck a chord in their hearts.  

"In your slave narratives book, I would like you to read the "Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglas' and bring your thoughts and notes back for next week. Class dismissed, have a great weekend and take care of yourselves" All the students quickly gather their things and make their way out of class.  

I go to my desk and also gather my things, I grab a stack of essays that I need to grade and put them in my padfolio, "Ah" I say grabbing my stomach, "You okay in there?" I ask my little peanut in my belly.  I'm 1 month out from my due date, it's been a relatively easy pregnancy; my only issue is that Peanut loves to kick mommy. 

"How are my two favorite people in the world" I hear a familiar voice say 

I gasp dramatically, "Daddy's here!" I say rubbing my stomach.  Namor approaches me and plants a warm kiss on my forehead and then bends down to greet and kiss my stomach, "I thought I wouldn't see you today? Everything okay?" I ask 

"Everything is fine, I spoke with my elders and advisors; we all agree for this last month I should be with you until you deliver" 

"We talked about this, you've got responsibilities to our people. Both their leaders can't be gone" I plead 

"You worry too much they will be fine. What kind of leader would I be if I left my wife in her last month of pregnancy to do it alone? Besides it would bring me peace of mind, the man in the black suit is still out there and you are your most vulnerable right now" 

He's right, he's still out there plotting my downfall. Wanda has been looking for him for months now, but whatever he's doing to hide is working very well. 

I sigh, "There's no convincing you out of this is there?" 

"Nope"

"Fineeee. Come on let's go we're starving; I was going to cook up some lamb, potatoes, and carrots. How's that sound?" I ask